Obama's day: Meetings in Warsaw

Jun. 3, 2014
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President Obama / Charles Dharapak, AP

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

President Obama arrived in Poland early Tuesday morning, starting a trip designed in part to re-assure Eastern Europe nations that the United States will back them up in cases of Russian aggression.

"As friends and allies, we stand together and forever," Obama said shortly after landing in Warsaw.

The president is scheduled Tuesday to meet with Polish President Bronislaw Komorowski and Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

One major topic: Russian activity in Ukraine, including the annexation of the Crimea region, and ongoing separatist violence in eastern and southern Ukraine. Poland borders Ukraine, and has long been suspicious of Russian intentions.

Obama's meeting with Komorowski will be followed by a brief joint news conference.

Shortly after landing, Obama met with American and Polish pilots who are part of a joint aviation mission that was stepped up after Russia's annexation of Crimea.

Obama is visiting Poland to commemorate the 25 anniversary of free elections in Poland. He ends the day with a Solidarity Dinner at the Royal Castle in Warsaw.

On Wednesday, Obama speaks at a ceremony for Polish Freedom Day, and meets with the incoming president of Ukraine.